Late effects of cancer and its treatment

For many, surviving their cancer diagnosis is just the first step. The good news is that so many cancer patients do survive long term. The bad news is that they are living long enough to develop a potential late effect. A late effect is any one of a large variety of toxicities that can affect virtually any organ system.

In other words, life after cancer treatment of any type can include risks for conditions and diseases that result directly from that treatment. These conditions can surface months, and even years, later. Thus, knowing the risks of treatment and learning what to watch for are crucial steps for survivors to be able to effectively anticipate and manage potential health issues.

"Long-Term Considerations after Chemotherapy & Stem Cell Transplantation" was a presentation given by John McCarty, M.D., an associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at VCU Medical Center and medical director of the Bone Marrow Transplantation Program at VCU Massey Cancer Center.